It will be Green Party member Haavisto's third attempt at becoming Finland's head of state, having been the runner-up in both 2012 and 2018.

Biden is presiding over a powerful post-pandemic economic revival – usually a key factor in deciding presidential elections – although he faces unique headwinds.

Gou stepped down as Foxconn chief in 2019 and made a presidential bid that year, but dropped out after losing the race to win the nomination for the KMT, which traditionally favours close ties with China.

Public resentment exploded into the most widespread public demonstrations for decades, followed by the dismantling of the policy and a maelstrom of cases that went mostly unreported by authorities.

Joe Biden is the oldest person ever to be US president.

Biden, who turns 80 this month, says his family wants him to run and he does not feel rushed to make a final decision.

Outgoing President Michel Aoun's term ends on Oct 31 and divisions remain among political blocs over the makeup of a new cabinet.

Ex-president Ramos became a hero to many for defecting from Marcos' government, where he led the national police force, spurring the dictator's downfall during the 1986 popular uprising against his rule.

Wickremesinghe, a six-time prime minister, became acting president after the then incumbent, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, fled to Singapore when protesters seized his residence and office.

Students and other groups planned a mass protest against Wickremesinghe's bid for president, as lawmakers gathered in parliament to finalise candidates for the role ahead of a vote.

Six-time prime minister Wickremesinghe took over as acting president after a popular uprising amid a devastating economic crisis forced previous incumbent Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee to Singapore and resign.

The frail but flamboyant 92-year-old matriarch has been the driving force in the family's comeback from exile to the peak of power in the May 9 polls.